Government launches new ultra-fast broadband fund

The government has launched its new £400m Digital Infrastructure Investment Fund (DIIF), which it hopes will ‘revolutionise’ internet access for businesses and individuals across the UK.

The fund was announced in the 2016 Autumn Statement, with the aim of helping to accelerate the roll-out of ultra-fast digital networks by unlocking over £1bn of private sector capital.

The new fund aims to facilitate the replacement of the existing system, which for many still relies on a network of copper cables connected to roadside cabinets, with more resilient and consistent ‘full-fibre’ networks which run fibre-optic connections directly to individual homes and businesses.

Commenting on the launch, Andrew Jones, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury said: ‘As technologies change and people’s habits move with them, it is crucial we play our part to ensure Britain stays at the front of the pack.

‘Full fibre will provide us with the better broadband we need to ensure we can work flexibly and productively, without connections failing’.